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IDC and DCIS tumor removed from left breast. After two lumpectomies, DCIS is still too close to the margins. Since a third lumpectomy will not guarantee clear margins, will require my surgeon to remove some skin, and further impact the shape of my breast, I’m meeting next week with my surgeon and a plastic surgeon to discuss a mastectomy.
I had the single mastectomy- they cut through so many nerves, which means fewer pain messages make it to the brain- so not as painful as I had imagined it would be. I had an Rx for pain meds, but just used Tylenol. The more uncomfortable spot was the incision area for the removal of the lymph nodes. Using a small U-shaped pillow to go under the arm, reduces the amount of pressure/friction from the arm against the surgery site. A similarly shaped neck pillow or small folded towel can accomplish the same thing. Keeping you in prayers! Hugs!
@A MyBCTeam Member thank you for your reassuring message.
I first had a lumpectomy in right breast in 2016, stage 1. Cancer came back in opposite breast stage 3 in 2024. My decision to have a double mastectomy was easy at age 60. The pain was not as bad as you would think. You have about 2 weeks down time with pain meds to control any pain. It will be hard to lift your arm so have all you need at arm level. You are going to be fine with what ever decision you make. Hugs
What a journey you've been on — two lumpectomies is a lot, and moving toward a mastectomy decision takes real courage. It makes complete sense to want to know what to expect with pain after everything you've already been through.
After a mastectomy, some pain, tenderness, and numbness is normal and expected. The good news Show Full Answer
You've been through so much. You are incredible my prayers and thoughts. Wishing you well. Much love and endless!
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